MDDUS chief executive Chris Kenny has responded to Dr Nigel Watson’s independent review into the partnership model in general practice.
He commented: "We welcome this review into the partnership model and we are glad it has highlighted the daily and ongoing pressures and demands that our GP members face. We believe that the partnership model should be supported in a way it can continue to be a success and removes the unnecessary demands placed upon it.
"However, the recently published NHS Long Term Plan states that a state-backed indemnity scheme (SBIS) will be ‘cost neutral’ so GPs need absolute certainty on how any scheme will be paid for – in 2019/20 and future years. That’s a key issue for today’s partners in particular – but also those who aspire to partnership in future.
"Neither SBIS nor this review addresses the cost drivers causing the rise in indemnity costs which can only be tackled through legal reform.
"GPs in England and Wales will still need the protection of MDDUS as the SBIS does not cover complaints, involvement in coroners’ cases, GMC hearings and other matters relating to professional regulation and non NHS work.
"Finally, MDDUS fully supports initiatives that promote GP partnerships as this model provides continuity and helps reduce clinical risk."
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